Wright snubs IPL

8 May 2008 | By Justin Goulding

Luke Wright © Getty Images

Sussex all-rounder Luke Wright has become the latest player to reveal he rejected an offer to join the Indian Premier League.

The 23-year-old is the third player this week to confirm he spurned the advances of the new Twenty20 competition, which also tried to recruit Ravi Bopara and Sajid Mahmood.

Essex all-rounder Bopara and Lancashire pace bowler Mahmood turned down lucrative offers in favour of fighting for a place in the England side, a sentiment echoed by Wright.

“Obviously, I was very pleased to be considered for the IPL,” said Wright, who has played five one-day internationals for England.

“However, at the moment my main focus and priority is playing for my country.

“I am now very much looking forward to the (England Lions) match against New Zealand, which is obviously a great chance for me to prove myself in the longer version of the game and hopefully push for a Test place.”

Mahmood, who has not played for England since the World Cup last year, said: “I’ve had offers to join the IPL but I’m desperate to work my way back into the England side.

“That’s the reason why I got into cricket in the first place and the desire is still burning brightly.

“I’m only 26, I’ve got a lot of years ahead of me in the game, and it would be great to spend those years representing my country and taking wickets.”